IND vs BAN Asia Cup 2023: Why is Mushfiqur Rahim not playing India vs Bangladesh match?

India and Bangladesh will lock horns in the Asia Cup 2023 on 15 September. Fans will notice a significant omission from the Bangladesh lineup – their experienced wicket-keeper batsman, Mushfiqur Rahim, in IND vs BAN Asia Cup 2023 match.

IND vs BAN Asia Cup 2023: Why is Mushfiqur Rahim not playing?

The reason behind Mushfiqur Rahim’s absence from this crucial match against India is attributed to personal circumstances, and it was confirmed by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) through a media release.

Mushfiqur Rahim, a key player in the Bangladesh cricket team, had earlier returned to Bangladesh to attend the birth of his second child immediately after the match against Sri Lanka. Given the situation, the BCB granted Mushfiqur an extension of leave to prioritize his family during this crucial time.

BCB Cricket Operations Chairman Mohammed Jalal Yunus expressed understanding and empathy, stating, “Mushfiqur has informed us that his wife Jannatul Kifayet Mondi is still recovering, and he needs to be by her side and with their children at this time. We fully understand his situation and have decided to permit him to skip the game.”

Bangladesh’s journey in the Asia Cup took an unexpected turn when India secured a 41-run victory over Sri Lanka, dashing Bangladesh’s hopes of advancing to the tournament final. As a result, their last Super Four game against India became a dead rubber, with no bearing on the final standings.

Initially, Mushfiqur Rahim was expected to return to Sri Lanka to participate in the final Super Four game against India. However, considering the circumstances, he will remain in Dhaka, prioritizing his family’s well-being and his wife’s recovery.